Mary Berry Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful snack or side dish, Mary Berry’s Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans are a must-try!

With just a few ingredients, this recipe transforms plain edamame beans into a tangy, smoky treat that’s bursting with flavor. The bright citrusy lemon combined with the savory char from grilling creates a perfect balance, making it an irresistible snack that’s both healthy and delicious. Plus, it’s quick to make, making it ideal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or just craving something satisfying. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become a go-to recipe!

Mary Berry Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To recreate Mary Berry’s Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans, you’ll need a handful of fresh, vibrant ingredients that bring out a wonderful balance of flavors. This dish is straightforward yet brimming with aromatic appeal, and each component plays a crucial role in making the dish as delightful as it is. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

1. Edamame Beans (Frozen or Fresh): The star of the dish!

   These are young soybeans, and while you can find them fresh in some specialty stores, frozen edamame beans are usually a more common and accessible option. Choose edamame that’s still in their pods for a more rustic presentation, though shelled beans work well too for convenience.

2. Lemon: This is the key ingredient that imparts a fresh, tangy zing to the dish. You’ll need both the zest and juice of a lemon. The zest adds a citrusy fragrance and sharpness, while the juice brings a refreshing acidity to balance the richness of the beans.

3. Olive Oil: A high-quality olive oil provides the perfect base for the beans to be grilled. It coats the edamame evenly and helps them roast beautifully, ensuring they don’t stick to the grill. Additionally, it adds depth and a subtle fruitiness to the dish.

4. Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a warm, savory punch to the recipe. You’ll finely chop or crush it to release its natural oils, which infuse the beans with flavor as they grill.

5. Sea Salt: Simple yet effective, sea salt elevates the taste of the edamame, bringing out their natural sweetness and complementing the other ingredients. It’s crucial to use coarse sea salt, as it provides a satisfying crunch and bursts of flavor with each bite.

6. Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper is an essential seasoning that adds a subtle kick and complexity to the dish. Its sharpness balances the lemon’s acidity and the richness of the olive oil.

7. Optional Garnishes: While not necessary, a sprinkle of chili flakes or sesame seeds can bring a bit of heat or an added layer of nuttiness to the dish, making it even more delightful.

With just these ingredients, you’re ready to create a vibrant, flavorful appetizer or side dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Equipment Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans, the right equipment is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Fortunately, the necessary tools are simple, and most home kitchens will already have them on hand.

1. Grill or Grill Pan: A grill or grill pan is essential to achieving the characteristic charred and smoky flavor that defines this dish. Whether you’re using an outdoor grill or an indoor grill pan, the goal is to cook the edamame over high heat to sear them and infuse them with that smoky aroma. If you’re using a grill pan, make sure it has ridges to mimic the griddle effect.

2. Medium Mixing Bowl: You’ll need a medium-sized mixing bowl to toss the edamame beans with the marinade ingredients. This allows you to ensure each bean is evenly coated in the garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper mixture before grilling.

3. Tongs: Tongs will help you handle the edamame beans while grilling. They allow you to turn the beans with ease, ensuring that they get evenly charred without losing any beans through the grill grates.

4. Zester or Grater: For the lemon zest, a microplane zester or fine grater is a must. This tool will allow you to finely grate the lemon peel, releasing its oils and bright fragrance without getting any of the bitter white pith.

5. Juicer or Citrus Press: To extract the fresh lemon juice, a juicer or citrus press will help you get the most juice from the lemon, ensuring your beans are well-coated with citrusy goodness. You can also do this by hand, but a press makes it easier and reduces the chances of seeds getting into the mix.

6. Serving Dish: A shallow serving dish or platter is perfect for presenting the grilled edamame beans once they’re ready. A flat surface allows the beans to spread out, so the charred edges are visible and the beans stay warm.

With these tools, you’ll be ready to grill and serve the beans with ease.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans

Making Mary Berry’s Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans is a simple yet rewarding process that doesn’t require much effort, but the results are outstanding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing the dish:

1. Prepare the Edamame: Start by defrosting your frozen edamame beans if you’re using them. If using fresh edamame, rinse them under cold water to clean off any dirt or debris. Make sure the beans are drained well and ready for seasoning.

2. Create the Marinade: In your mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, garlic (finely chopped or crushed), sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir this together until it forms a cohesive marinade. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary-if you prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, feel free to add more zest or juice.

3. Coat the Edamame: Add the edamame beans to the bowl with the marinade and toss them gently to ensure each bean is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture. Allow the beans to sit for 10-15 minutes, allowing the marinade to penetrate and infuse them with flavor.

4. Preheat the Grill: While the beans marinate, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

5. Grill the Edamame: Place the marinated edamame beans on the grill. If you’re using an outdoor grill, you can simply lay the beans directly on the grates. For an indoor grill pan, you may want to use a perforated grilling tray or skewers to keep the beans from falling through. Grill the beans for 3-5 minutes per side, or until they develop beautiful char marks and become tender. Be sure to use tongs to turn the beans for even grilling.

6. Serve and Garnish: Once the beans are grilled, transfer them to a serving platter. You can sprinkle some optional garnishes like sesame seeds or chili flakes for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve the beans immediately while they’re warm and enjoy the crispy, zesty goodness!

Expert Tips

1. Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemons yield more juice and a stronger, more aromatic zest compared to bottled lemon juice. Always opt for fresh when you can!

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: For the best results, ensure the edamame beans are spread out in a single layer on the grill. If they’re too crowded, they won’t cook evenly or get those lovely char marks.

3. Add a Smoky Touch: If you want a deeper smoky flavor, you can add a small handful of wood chips to the grill (if using an outdoor grill) to enhance the smokiness, or use a smokey olive oil for an added layer of complexity.

4. Experiment with Other Citrus: While lemon is the classic choice, you can experiment with lime, orange, or even grapefruit for a twist on the flavor. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

5. Serve with Dips: To elevate the dish further, serve the edamame beans with a side of dipping sauce. A simple soy sauce or a garlic-mayo blend complements the citrusy flavors of the beans and adds a rich contrast.

Mary Berry’s Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans are the perfect dish for anyone craving something healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of tender edamame, zesty lemon, and a smoky char from the grill creates a delightful contrast of textures and tastes.

Whether served as a light appetizer or a side dish, this recipe brings together simplicity and sophistication in a way that will have your guests coming back for more. With a few quality ingredients and a couple of expert tips, you can recreate this tasty treat at home and enjoy a burst of fresh, savory goodness. Happy grilling!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans

Mary Berry’s Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans are a simple yet flavorful dish that blends the earthy taste of edamame with the zesty punch of lemon. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, offering numerous ways to adjust and experiment according to personal preferences or dietary needs. Here are some easy and delicious variations to elevate your dish:

1. Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, consider adding chili flakes, fresh chopped red chili, or a drizzle of sriracha sauce. The spicy kick will complement the citrusy tang of the lemon, creating a wonderful balance of flavors. For a smoky touch, you could even incorporate some smoked paprika or chipotle powder.

2. Herb Infusion: While the original recipe calls for lemon, a handful of fresh herbs can bring a refreshing twist. Consider adding finely chopped mint, cilantro, or parsley to introduce some green freshness. Thyme and rosemary would also pair beautifully with the smoky flavor of the grilled edamame.

3. Garlic and Ginger: Infuse the beans with a deeper, aromatic flavor by adding minced garlic or ginger to the grilling mixture. A touch of grated ginger can lend a warm, slightly spicy note that contrasts nicely with the tangy lemon. Garlic, on the other hand, adds a rich, savory element to the dish.

4. Soy Sauce and Sesame Seeds: To make the recipe even more umami-packed, drizzle some soy sauce over the grilled beans. The salty depth of the soy sauce will harmonize with the brightness of the lemon. Topping the dish with toasted sesame seeds can add a nutty crunch, enhancing both the flavor and texture.

5. Vegan and Gluten-Free Options: The base of this recipe is already vegan and gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions. You can further enhance this aspect by replacing any regular seasoning with gluten-free tamari sauce or making a homemade lemon-tahini dressing to drizzle over the beans for extra richness.

6. Mediterranean Twist: For a Mediterranean-inspired version, sprinkle feta cheese and Kalamata olives on top of the grilled edamame beans after cooking. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of dried oregano or za’atar seasoning will enhance the overall flavor, making the dish perfect for a light lunch or as part of a mezze platter.

7. Sweet and Savory: For a sweet-savory profile, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup along with the lemon. The sweetness will beautifully balance out the saltiness of the beans, creating a more complex flavor profile that’s sure to impress at any dinner party.

Each of these variations can be easily tailored to match your personal taste preferences, making Mary Berry’s Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans an endlessly customizable dish.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftovers can be a wonderful thing, but storing them properly is key to maintaining their flavor and texture. Here’s how to store any leftover Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans to ensure they stay as fresh and delicious as possible:

1. Cooling Down: Before storing, it’s important to allow your grilled edamame beans to cool down to room temperature. Placing them in a container while still hot can cause condensation inside the storage container, which will lead to soggy beans once reheated.

2. Airtight Containers: To preserve the freshness and prevent your edamame from drying out or absorbing any odors from other foods in the fridge, store the beans in an airtight container. Glass containers are ideal, as they don’t absorb odors or stain like plastic might.

3. Refrigeration: Grilled edamame beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you know you won’t be able to finish them in that time, it’s best to freeze them for longer storage.

4. Freezing: If you want to store your edamame beans for a longer period, freezing is a great option. First, blanch the beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes and then cool them under cold running water. Once cooled, spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer the beans to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

5. Reheating: When reheating grilled edamame beans, you can either warm them in the microwave or reheat them in a skillet. If using a skillet, it’s best to heat them on medium heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, to restore their grilled texture. For the microwave, just heat in short intervals (30 seconds at a time) and stir to ensure even warming.

6. Avoid Overheating: Overheating leftovers can cause them to become tough or overly dry, so always aim to gently reheat, rather than blasting them on high heat.

By following these best practices, your leftover Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans will remain tasty and fresh, ready to enjoy at your convenience.

What Goes Well With Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans

Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans are a delightful dish on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of other foods to create a more complete meal. Here are a few ideas for what to serve with these beans:

1. Rice and Grains: A bowl of steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or couscous makes an excellent base for the edamame. The subtle flavors of these grains complement the zesty beans, and their textures work well together. You can also use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and more fiber.

2. Grilled Vegetables: To keep the dish light and healthy, pair it with other grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus. The smoky flavor from the grill and the charred edges of the veggies will work well with the citrusy brightness of the edamame.

3. Salads: A fresh salad is a perfect side to the grilled beans. Try a leafy green salad with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens. You can toss in some avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette to complement the citrusy notes of the beans.

4. Grilled Chicken or Fish: If you’re looking for a protein-packed meal, grilled lemon herb chicken or a piece of grilled salmon can pair wonderfully with the edamame beans. The grilled flavors from both the beans and the protein will make for a deliciously cohesive dish. A simple lemon butter sauce or tzatziki can elevate the pairing.

5. Wraps and Pitas: For a more casual approach, serve the grilled edamame beans in a wrap or pita alongside other fillings like hummus, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables. The beans can add an extra layer of texture and flavor to a Mediterranean-style wrap.

6. Dips: If you’re serving the edamame beans as an appetizer or snack, pair them with dips like hummus, tzatziki, or a spicy harissa yogurt dip. The creaminess of the dips contrasts nicely with the crunchy texture of the edamame, creating a perfect bite.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans are a delightful and versatile dish that can be adapted to suit any taste preference or dietary requirement. With simple ingredient swaps and creative variations, you can easily transform this dish into something entirely new every time you make it. Whether you’re enjoying them as a healthy snack, a side dish, or even a main course, these beans deliver a burst of flavor that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

When storing leftovers, it’s important to keep them in an airtight container, either in the fridge for a few days or frozen for longer shelf life, to ensure their freshness and prevent spoilage. Pairing the grilled edamame beans with grains, grilled vegetables, proteins, or fresh salads can elevate the meal, creating a balanced, flavorful spread for any occasion.

Ultimately, this dish is a great example of how a few simple ingredients-edamame, lemon, and a few seasonings-can come together to create something truly delicious and versatile. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with others, Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans are sure to impress.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans Recipe?

The key ingredients for Mary Berry’s grilled lemon edamame beans recipe include fresh edamame beans in their pods, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Some versions may also call for fresh herbs like parsley or chili flakes for added flavor.

Can I Use Frozen Edamame For This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen edamame beans for Mary Berry’s recipe. Just make sure to thaw and cook them according to the package instructions before grilling. This will give you a similar texture and flavor as fresh beans.

How Long Do I Need To Grill The Edamame Beans?

Grill the edamame beans for about 3-4 minutes on medium heat, turning occasionally, until they are lightly charred and heated through. The grilling time may vary depending on the heat of your grill, so be sure to keep an eye on them.

Can I Make The Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans In The Oven Instead Of Grilling Them?

Yes, you can roast the edamame beans in the oven if you don’t have a grill. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), spread the prepared edamame on a baking sheet, and roast for about 15-20 minutes, tossing halfway through, until they are golden and slightly crispy.

What Should I Serve With Mary Berry’s Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans?

Grilled lemon edamame beans make a great snack or appetizer. You can also serve them as a side dish with grilled meats, Asian-inspired dishes like teriyaki chicken, or as part of a vegetarian meal with rice or noodles.

Can I Add Other Seasonings Or Ingredients To This Recipe?

Absolutely!

You can customize the seasoning to your taste. Adding chili flakes, sesame oil, or soy sauce will give it an extra depth of flavor. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint also pair well with the lemony freshness of the beans.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans Spicy?

To make the recipe spicy, you can add chili flakes or minced fresh chili peppers to the marinade. Alternatively, drizzle some chili oil over the beans after grilling for an extra kick.

Is It Necessary To Remove The Edamame Beans From Their Pods Before Serving?

No, you do not need to remove the beans from their pods before grilling. The beans are typically served in their pods, and you eat the beans by squeezing them out of the pods with your teeth. The pods are not meant to be consumed.

Can I Prepare The Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans Ahead Of Time?

While the grilled edamame beans are best served fresh, you can prepare the seasoning mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. You can also cook the beans and refrigerate them, but they will taste freshest when enjoyed right after grilling.

Is Mary Berry’s Grilled Lemon Edamame Beans Recipe Suitable For Vegetarians And Vegans?

Yes, this recipe is both vegetarian and vegan-friendly, as it contains only plant-based ingredients like edamame, lemon, garlic, and olive oil.